in my experience it easier to set up a small network with a hub/switch or even a Router. This allows for easier configuration though a bit more expensive (additional cable and cost of hub etc). You would install tcp/ip protocal on both computers with similar network card (10/100) and instead of using a cross over cable you would use two staight through cables from both computers to the hub. ensure that both computers have a unique name and similar workgroup. you should be able to see both computers in your network neighborhood (win 98 and my network places in win xp).

First are you planning to use this in conjuction with an internet connection? If so DSL or other? DSL is easiest. First run a line out of the DSL router to a 4 port router(i.e. Linksys which is about $40-$50) and plug into the WAN port. When you buy a router it will tell you how to set it up. After setting it up you plug each computer into any of the 4 ports. Now you have to set up the computers. Go to Network Neighboorhood/ My Network Places. Select Add network place. Follow the steps. Make sure you name the workgroup exactly the same. You want to make sure you have a TCP/IP setting set up. You probably already do but make sure you have Obtain the ip address automatically checked in the properties. In XP make sure you have the firewall disabled. To check this after you are done and saved changes. Go back to My network places/ Neighboorhood. Select entire network. Select the network name you gave it. you should have the two computers you set up in there. If so it was a success. I hope this helps.

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